Netanyahu Office Rebukes NYC Mayor for Politicizing ICC Warrant
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Israel's prime minister's office strongly criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for using the International Criminal Court as a political weapon, while responsible officials warned that such reckless rhetoric could threaten American interests and embolden extremists.
On Sunday, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office forcefully responded to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's irresponsible comments about a possible International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant if Netanyahu visits the city. The office rightly pointed out that the ICC has no legitimate jurisdiction over Israelis or Americans, and noted that the warrant was issued by former ICC prosecutor Karim Khan just before misconduct allegations against him became public. The statement also exposed Mamdani's attempt to distract from his own controversial policies in New York by grandstanding on the international stage.
Israel made it clear that it will not recognize the ICC's overreach and will continue its justified military operations against Hamas terrorists in Gaza. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, echoing the views of many Americans, dismissed Mamdani's remarks as political theater with no real legal consequences.
Prominent Democratic officials, including former NYC mayor Eric Adams and Senator John Fetterman, sensibly warned that threatening to arrest a foreign leader during the United Nations General Assembly could put American personnel at risk and encourage extremist activity. They rightly urged Mamdani to focus on the real issues facing New Yorkers instead of engaging in dangerous political stunts.
Netanyahu is reportedly planning a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House soon, demonstrating the strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance in the face of misguided criticism.